AST Programs

The AST Division supports the following programs and activities:

         * Advanced Technologies
           and Instrumentation
         * Education, Human
           Resources, and Special
           Programs
         * Electromagnetic
           Spectrum Management
         * Extragalactic Astronomy
           and Cosmology
         * Galactic Astronomy
         * Planetary Astronomy
         * Stellar Astronomy and
           Astrophysics

Galactic Astronomy

    Supports theoretical and observational studies of the structure
    and evolution of the Milky Way galaxy; the distribution, position,
    and motion of stars in the galaxy; the characteristics of star
    clusters in the galaxy; the interstellar medium; and the
    properties of atoms and molecular constituents of the interstellar
    medium.

Stellar Astronomy and Astrophysics

    Supports theoretical and observational studies of the structure
    and activity of the Sun and other stars; the physical properties
    of all types of stars; all aspects of star formation and stellar
    evolution; the effects of mass loss, rotation, and magnetic
    fields; and the properties of atoms and molecules that are
    relevant to stellar astronomy.

Education, Human Resources, and Special Programs

    Coordinates research support in special areas that are astronomy
    related. Programs include Research Experiences for Undergraduates
    (REU) Sites and Supplements, Presidential Early Career Awards for
    Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), Faculty Early Career
    Development (CAREER), Research at Undergraduate Institutions
    (RUI), Professional Opportunities for Women in Research and
    Education (POWRE), and programs for underrepresented minorities.